Stacking Stones​A Creative Craft Blog

From the mind of Jason Kapcala comes an eclectic journal dedicated to the study of creative writing, rock music, tailgating, and other miscellany. The musings, meditations, contemplations, and ruminations expressed here are my own unless otherwise indicated. Please feel free to share your comments, thoughts, and opinions, but do so respectfully and intelligently.

When I started this blog, I told myself that I would keep it purely focused on the sacred act of writing and not interject with my personal passions. So much for that—it’s my blog; I figured what the heck. Last night, the Philadelphia Eagles officially retired the number of future Hall-of-Fame safety Brian Dawkins (known affectionately as Weapon X).

With only a few words, Dawkins reminded fans everywhere why, for 16 seasons, he was one of the most beloved athletes in professional sports: "I’d like to thank all of you fans for allowing me to be me, to act a fool when I wanted to, to lose my mind when I wanted to, to go out and give everything that I got. I can retire now because I know I left everything I got on this doggone field.”

The numbers speak for themselves. And yet Dawkins is probably best known for his tenacious style, his peerless leadership, his deep religious faith, and his genuine appreciation for his fans. In a time when far too many of our pro athletes are making news for steroid use, spousal abuse, driving under the influence, and other shameful behavior, it’s nice to be able to recognize a player and a family man who held himself to the very highest standards both on and off the field. Thanks for the memories, #20!

If you’ve never seen Dawkins play, do yourself a favor and watch the highlight reel: